Spring has officially sprung!
The vibrancy of the season was undeniable in the board chambers as we officially recognized March 2024 as Afghan American Heritage Month. I was proud to sponsor this proclamation alongside Supervisor Haubert and even more honored to celebrate Nowruz, the arrival of spring, with so many community leaders, including from 5ive Pillars Organization, Afghans For A Better Tomorrow, Chabot-Las Positas Community College District, Afghan Coalition, Afghan Care, and Afghan Senior Association of the Bay Area!
 Recognizing March as Afghan American Heritage Month on March 12, 2024.
District 2 also continues to celebrate Women’s History Month this March where we are amplifying the stories of remarkable women transforming public safety right here in Alameda County. Thank you to Alameda County Sheriff Yesenia Sanchez and Undersheriff April Luckett-Fahimi, as well as Fremont Fire Department Chief Zoraida Diaz and Deputy Fire Chief Heather Mozdean, for your service, leadership, and inspiration for our community!
 Celebrating strong women in leadership in District 2.
From left to right: Alameda County Sheriff Yesenia Sanchez, Alameda County Undersheriff April Luckett-Fahimi, Fremont Fire Chief Zoraida Diaz, and Fremont Deputy Fire Chief Heather Mozdean
Across District 2 and the County, I continue to see how many seeds of change are taking root and even beginning to blossom towards a brighter future. This is especially true for our regional safety-net services and affordable housing investments.
I am grateful for county staff’s time and expertise and want to thank the City of Hayward for their support with a $250,000 allocation to maximize this strategic funding mechanism to ensure health care for all in Alameda County.
Additionally, the County’s commitment to affordable housing continues to increase opportunities for local residents and the economy to thrive. As a member of the Procurement and Contracting Policy Committee, I was encouraged to recently learn that as of in 2023, $248 million of Alameda County Measure A1 Housing Bond funds went towards 55 projects or 4,179 units of affordable housing, far exceeding the original goal of 3,800 new units! This also resulted in more than $124 million going towards Alameda County-based businesses as well as over 4,900 construction jobs.
 Supporting one of our key affordable housing partners, Abode Services, during our tour of the Depot Community Apartments back in January.
Just as there is much to celebrate, there is even more cultivate in the spring months ahead. As I approach my one-year anniversary as District 2’s County Supervisor next month, I hope you will join me in continuing to foster inclusion, partnership, and unity across our region. Together, we are better.
 Housing Authority of the County of Alameda (HACA) will be accepting online applications for their HCV (Section 8) program and HACA-owned Project based (PBV), 3- and 4-bedroom units in Emeryville and Union City for families with very low-income (VLI) and extremely low-income (ELI). Section 8 provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families in a unit of their choosing. PBV provides this rental assistance in units owned by HACA. Learn more at www.haca.net/housing-programs. HACA serves the following cities in Alameda County: Albany, Emeryville, Castro Valley, Dublin, Fremont, Hayward, Newark, Pleasanton, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Pleasanton, Union City, and unincorporated areas of Alameda County.
The online application is available continuously 24 hours a day during the open application period of Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at 8:00am PST through Friday April 5, 2024 at 11:59pm PST. There is no cost to apply. Apply using any device that has access to the internet including your mobile phone. The application will be available in English, Chinese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
HACA has community partners to assist the elderly, the disabled, those with limited English, and the
general public. A list of these organizations can be found at www.haca.net or a printed copy can be picked up at HACA’s office. If these partners cannot assist you, please call HACA at (510) 727-8519 or email at waitlist@haca.net to request a Reasonable Accommodation or interpretation. Requests for assistance must be made by Friday, April 5 at 1:00pm.
 Mission Gateway Apartments is a mixed-use development that combines affordable family housing with 3,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. Located near the East Bay foothills, the community provides a beautiful entrance to Union City. Working with the Redevelopment Agency of Union City, MidPen Housing helped the city achieve its goals of creating new housing and business opportunities by transforming the site, once occupied by abandoned and dilapidated buildings, into the Mission Gateway community.
Mission Gateway Apartments is now accepting applications for 2, 3, and 4-bedroom units. Applicants may apply beginning Tuesday, March 12 until Friday, April 12.
Please view the flyer and Mission Gateway Apartment's website to learn more.
 Genesis's Prep for Success series is offering career workshops and Historical Black Colleges & Universities tours (virtual and physical) to prepare and inspire you for a positive life. Their workshops cover topics such as visualizing your future, understanding and navigating new cultures, creating healthy minds and boundaries, introducing HBCUs – and much more.
Visit Genesis' website to register for the workshop series, browse resources and upcoming events (such as their Artificial Intelligence Workshop on Sat. March 30 and their Cyber Security Workshop on Sat. April 13), and access their Smart Goals Video Library.
Genesis Community Development Corporation is the non-profit community arm of South Bay Community Church. Their mission is to Equip, Enrich and Empower the underserved and underrepresented children, youths and adults, by providing life skills, personal development, educational, vocational, and cultural enrichment, resulting in personal improvement and life transformation.
 Did you know Alameda County has a mobile clinic offering healthcare to our unhoused population? Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless' (ACHCH) mobile clinic is a collaboration with Alameda Health System (AHS) and provides urgent care, care coordination, linkage and referrals to community resources. Services are provided free of charge to people experiencing homelessness and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Services are provided free of charge to people experiencing homelessness on a first-come, first-served basis.
Staff from Alameda Health System and Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless (ACHCH) include a medical provider, medical assistant, social worker, registration clerk, and van driver. They all work together to provide friendly and accessible care to those who need it most, as well as linkages to ongoing primary care at Alameda Health System or other community clinics.
For more information, please call (510) 437-5086 or visit Alameda Health System.
 Tax day (April 15) is right around the corner! Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA) VITA Program is providing no cost IRS certified tax preparation assistance to low-income families and Individuals.
Tax services are provided by appointment only - no exceptions.
Visit SSA's Vita Program website to learn more and make an appointment.
 On March 6, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), in partnership with the Child Mind Institute, released a new video series, Positive Parenting, Thriving Kids – championed by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. This new video series will give parents and caregivers additional resources to face potential parenting challenges they may encounter, particularly as it relates to the mental health of the children in their lives.
The video series topics were identified by a team of more than 40 experts from the Child Mind Institute, Harvard University, the University of California, Los Angeles, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Southern California, San Diego State University, Peer Health Exchange, and other leading institutions. Content was informed with the help of survey data collected from a Child Mind Institute and Ipsos survey of 1,000 California parents.
The video series features a diverse group of individuals, including 150 parents, caregivers, and children, and the topics cover four broad themes, including self-care and parent-child relationships, healthy child and adolescent growth, big changes and challenges, and family and community stress.
Both Positive Parents, Thriving Kids and the previously released Healthy Minds, Thriving Kids series, are a part of the First Partner's California for ALL Kids initiative, and aim to address the youth mental health crisis through tangible, evidence-based resources and support.
View the full press release here.
 Interested in joining a dynamic team of high school students dedicated to making a difference? Become a mentor and tutor for elementary and middle school students, guiding them through educational challenges with fun and creativity. Make a lasting impact while gaining valuable leadership and teaching experience for community service hours.
Join the Kennedy Youth Center team today by filling out the interest form and be a part of building a brighter future together!
 The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District typically hires a number of full-time and part-time workers on an as needed basis throughout the year. Hours vary and can include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Positions are available in a number of program areas. Certain positions will require the employee to be fingerprinted and if you are under the age of 18 you will need to get a work permit from your school before you can start working.
Click here to browse employment opportunities with H.A.R.D. or call their Human Resources Department at (510) 881-6708.
 Enjoy an evening of absolutely wonderful symphonic music provided "free-of-charge" by the Tri-Cities' own 50 musician symphony - the Newark Symphonic Winds - directed by Richard Wong.
This FREE performance (no tickets are necessary) is sponsored by the Fremont Bank Foundation. Click here for more information on the performance or call Newark Symphonic Winds at 510-552-7186.
Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Newark Memorial High School Theatre, 39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark, CA 94560
 If your nonprofit social strategy is delivering less than desired results or needs a refresh, or if you’re just getting started with establishing a social presence, Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition (TCNPC) can help!
TCNPC is pleased to announce that its April presentation will focus on social media marketing best practices. Muirgheal Forro, Operations and Community Outreach Manager at HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, will review numerous topics essential to highlighting your mission and work on social channels.
Presentation topics will include developing brand-aligned strategic content, utilitzing storytelling in a personal and engaging manner, promoting your online presence in a way that fosters collaboration, and using targeted social media advertising to reach and influence a broad audience.
This free in-person event will include networking and light refreshments.
Register today to join TCNPC in person at http://tinyurl.com/SMPresi2024 or use the QR code.
Date: Thursday, April 11
Time: 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Location: Washington Hospital’s Anderson Auditorium at 2500 Mowry Avenue in Fremont
 Join the fun on Saturday, April 14th at Studio 11 for our Spring Pop Up on the Promenade (Local Makers Fair).
Find handmade goods, art, plants, kids activities, flower bar, and so much more!
Date: Saturday, April 13
Time: 11am - 4pm
Location: Studio 11, 34626 11th St. Union City
 The Annual Citywide Clean-Up & Community Fair is a litter pick-up event hosted at Weekes Park. Volunteers come together to collect litter and abandoned debris in various neighborhoods throughout the City. After picking up litter, community members will meet back up at Weekes Park and be provided lunch. There will also be a Community Fair with sustainability themed booths hosted by community organizations with fun activities for all.
The Annual Citywide Clean-Up will take place on Saturday, April 20, 2024. You can sign-up for to participate in the clean-up here. In an effort to make the event zero waste, we encourage participants to bring their own water bottles.
If you are interested in hosting a booth at this year's Community Fair, please contact Elise Pierce at elise.pierce@hayward-ca.gov.
Date: Saturday, April 20
Time: 8:30am - 1pm
Location: Weekes Park, 27182 Patrick Ave, Hayward
 Raising Leaders, a key District 2 initiative since 2018, is a workshop and internship model giving at-promise youth an opportunity to learn from leaders within our community and gain hands-on paid work experience. “Raising the Profile” is a District 2 newsletter series taking a deeper look into the Raising Leaders program through interviews with its students, partners, and worksites. In this issue of the newsletter, we are featuring Ivan, a youth from Union City who changed his life around with the help of the Raising Leaders initiative.
Ivan's childhood was marred by strife, with frequent family conflicts driving him away from home and into the streets, where he made questionable choices. Raised in a household filled with tension, he found escape in physical activity, particularly boxing at DSAL and spending time at the gym.
The turning point came when his cousin introduced him to the "Raising Leaders" program. Initially hesitant, Ivan decided to take a chance, recognizing the need for change in his life. Little did he know, this decision would alter the trajectory of his future.
Through the program, Ivan found not only financial support but also invaluable mentorship and guidance. Selecting the Alameda County Fire Department as his preferred worksite, he was mentored by experienced firefighters who provided him with a blueprint for success, emphasizing the importance of continuing his education and obtaining his EMT license.
As Ivan immersed himself in the workshops, he found inspiration in the personal stories shared by speakers, fueling his determination to overcome challenges and pursue his dreams. His dedication to the program extended beyond mere participation; Ivan actively contributed to his community, leveraging his bilingual skills to assist with translations during public interactions.
The support and mentorship Ivan received through the Raising Leaders initiative not only fueled his ambition to become a firefighter, but also instilled in him a sense of purpose and belonging. Despite facing obstacles along the way, Ivan persevered, driven by his aspiration to serve his community and make a positive impact.
ACFD Fire Captain John Hill describes Ivan's enthusiasm and fresh perspective a welcome addition to the team. He appreciated Ivan's eagerness to learn and contribute, noting how his immersion in day-to-day operations enhanced his understanding and readiness to assist in emergency situations. In addition Ivan learns valuable life lesson skills like team work, apparatus inventory, and cooking skills while at the fire station.
ACFD Deputy Chief Eric Moore emphasized Raising Leaders’ role in providing opportunities for success to individuals from diverse backgrounds. For him, Ivan's journey symbolized the essence of community support and empowerment, showcasing the transformative power of mentorship and guidance.
Through the collaborative efforts of the Alameda County Fire Department and initiatives like Raising Leaders, individuals like Ivan not only find a path to personal growth and fulfillment but also contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of their communities. As Ivan continues his journey towards becoming a firefighter, his story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others facing similar challenges, proving that with determination and support, anything is possible.
 Boards and Commissions - District 2 Openings for Residents of Hayward (incorporated), Union City, Newark and portions of Fremont.
To qualify, you must either live or work in District 2.
For Further Information, contact Ginny DeMartini, ginny.demartini@acgov.org and/or 510.670.6150. Please send a resume and request an application.
Read about the Commissions – https://www.acgov.org/bnc/#/board
1. Commission on the Status of Women
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Objective: The purpose of the Commission is to help eliminate discrimination and prejudice against women in such areas as housing, employment, health services, childcare, education, transportation, credit, legal rights and community services
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Agency: Social Services Agency
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Term: 2 years
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Meetings:10 meetings per year -- 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6:00pm
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Location:2000 San Pablo Ave # 445, Oakland
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Qualifications: Must be a resident and woman who reflects the general population in age, race, religion and socio-economic status.
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District 2: One opening available to Newark, Union City or Fremont (District 2) residents
2. Assessment Appeals Board
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Objective: Serves as the Board of Equalization for the County of Alameda.
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Agency: County Administrator's Office
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Term: 3 years
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Location: As needed, Monday and Wednesday
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Meetings: 1221 Oak St, Oakland
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Qualifications: Five years minimum experience as a licensed Real Estate Broker, Attorney or Appraiser or Certified Public Accountant. Two openings available to District 2 residents
3. Housing and Community Development Advisory Board
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Objective: Define needs relating to funding projects of Federal Housing and Community Development Act
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Established: Dec. 9, 1975
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Term: 4 years
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Meetings: 2nd Tuesday of odd months, 7:00pm
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Location: 224 West Winton Avenue, Room 108 Hayward
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Qualifications: Must be residents District 2. One opening available for residents interested in Housing issues, specifically from Newark, Union City or Fremont (District 2) residents.
 Independent Watchdog Committee
The IWC, listed in the 2000 Measure B Expenditure Plan as the Citizens Watchdog Committee and in the 2014 Measure BB Expenditure Plan as the Independent Watchdog Committee, makes sure Measure B and Measure BB tax dollars are improving transportation in Alameda County, as promised to voters. The IWC scrutinizes all Measure B and BB expenditures and reports directly to the public each year on these expenditures (see the most recent IWC Annual Report).
All 17 members must be Alameda County residents and are appointed for a two-year term, one opening available. Commission Staff: Angie Ayers, aayers@alamedactc.org. You must submit the completed application along with your current resume to: ginny.demartini@acgov.org, 510.670.6150.
 Are you or someone you know interested in joining the Alameda County Civil Grand Jury? The jury’s primary responsibility is to examine and report on the operations of local government agencies and to investigate citizen complaints, acting as the public’s watchdog.
Currently, the Superior Court is seeking Grand Jury nominations for this fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024. Nominations must be received no later than April 15, 2024.
Participation on the Civil Grand Jury is a significant commitment: at least two meetings per week via Zoom (Wednesday and Thursday mornings) and extra meeting days as needed.
For more information, please visit the links below or contact Cassie Barner at Cassie.Barner@acgov.org or 510-208-9855.
211 Alameda County: 211alamedacounty.org
Alameda County Housing Portal: Affordable Housing Rentals
Alameda County Housing Secure: Tenant and Landlord Housing Resources
Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA): Medi-Cal Enrollment
Alameda County Employment Openings: www.acgov.org/careers.htm
Board of Supervisors Meetings: Information on how to participate in public comment is available on the LIVE Broadcasts page on the Board of Supervisors' website.
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